When Metallica entered the studio in 1985 to craft what would become Master of Puppets, few could have imagined the unexpected names hovering around the band at the time.

Geddy Lee has confirmed long-standing rumors that he discussed the possibility of producing Master Of Puppets while Metallica were preparing to record the 1986 classic.

"It's sort of true.

There was some discussion with Lars, back in the day, about working with them," Lee revealed in an interview with Noisey.

"There was talk, you know.

I was friends with their management and I met Lars back in England." Despite the mutual respect, the collaboration ultimately "just never came together." The idea of Lee producing the raw, thrash assault of Master Of Puppets remains one of heavy music's great "what ifs." In related news, Joe Satriani has also reflected on his connection to Metallica.

Long before Master Of Puppets and the band's 1988 follow-up …And Justice for All, lead guitarist Kirk Hammett was studying under Satriani in the Bay Area.

At the time, Hammett was already a capable player and a member of Exodus before joining Metallica in 1983.

Satriani recently recalled that the final guitar lesson he ever gave was to Hammett in early January 1988 – just before Satriani launched his own solo career.

The two musicians have since reunited on stage, sharing a massive bill in Quebec City years later, opening for Metallica before a crowd of 120,000 fans.